Mark and Jane Houser farm about 300 acres of 11 varieties of winegrapes, including the more unusual ones of Cinsault, Mouuvedre, Grenache, Primitivo and Viognier. Their grapes go into Arrowood and Hoot Owl Creek Late Harvest Johannisberg Riesling. They love grilled rib eye steaks and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Grower and Spouse names:

Mark and Jane Houser

Vineyard/Ranch name:

Hoot Owl Creek / Alexander Valley Vineyards

Appellation:

Alexander Valley

How long have you farmed this property?

30 years

Total acreage managed and grape varieties planted:

Approx. 300 acres Cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, syrah, zinfandel, cinsault, mouvedre, grenache, primitivo, chardonnay, and viognier.

Why did you become a grape grower?

When I finished my 4 years in the Navy, I wanted to work outdoors, agriculture provided that. Viticulture grabbed my interest right away and offered unique places to work and live. Received a degree at Fresno State.

Farming philosophy:

Be a good neighbor, steward of the land, apply sustainable practices, including cover crops and low impact chemicals. You don’t have to kill every pest!

What changes in farming practice do you anticipate making in the next 5 years?

Concentrating on herbicide reduction using mechanical means under vines. With that action under the vine, it may result in a reduction of over-wintering pests, which may result in fewer chemical inputs!

What was your worst horror story in grape growing?

My first job out of college in the San Joaquin Valley was managing 2000 acres of winegrapes. One Monday I went to inspect a block of grapes, the first 20 rows alongside the road were defoliated. I said what have I done here? I looked across the street to see an open field had been sprayed by air with contact herbicide. The spray had drifted over and defoliated the first 20 rows of vines!

Is your vineyard designated on any wine labels?

Which ones? Arrowood, Hoot Owl Creek Late Harvest Johannisberg Riesling.

What is your favorite food/wine combination?

Rib eye Steak and cabernet sauvignon.

Employee note: Greatest length of service or other item of interest about your workforce.

My foreman has worked here for 30 years. An asset worth his weight in gold!